Tim is on track to complete his undergraduate degree in 2018, but already has $25,000 of student loan debt.

“With the passing of this bill, it would aid myself and those around me in our journey to aid the clients we serve by allowing us to take care of ourselves,” Tim told the Joint Committee. “When I first entered the human service field, it was because I wanted to make a difference in lives around me and aid those who were in recovery so that they could lead their lives to their fullest. Without peace of mind to the human service worker, it is hard to take care of those we serve, who rely on us to get by in everyday life.”

At the hearing, Providers’ Council Vice President of Public Policy and Development Bill Yelenak asserted that the proposed legislation would help staff stay in jobs that they love and allow for continuity of care for the state’s most vulnerable residents.